Whitewater Rafting
Get ready for the most exciting summer activity in Jackson Hole. It's time to hit the Jackson Hole whitewater on the Snake River, just south of town, where the river narrows and the white water creates a day of thrills for all.
- A rafting ride on the Snake River provides opportunities for both scenic floats and whitewater rafting.
- Guided float trip options include whitewater rafting in the Snake River Canyon, scenic floats in Grand Teton National Park, and scenic floats on the South Park section.
Overview
A summer vacation in Jackson Hole isn't complete without trying Jackson Hole whitewater rafting. Floating on the river, offers opportunities for relaxing expeditions and whitewater adventures!
From a scenic, slow-paced meander on the water to the thrills, chills and possible spills of a wild white water rafting ride, you can enjoy it all in Jackson. Cool off on a hot August day or pair a cool September evening with a sunset ride.
Where to go Whitewater Rafting
The Snake River is a long and winding river providing opportunities all along its course for scenic floats and whitewater rafting.
One of the best scenic floats and an outstanding opportunity for wildlife viewing is the stretch of the Snake River that runs through Grand Teton National Park. One concessioner has a permit for scenic floats in the National Park.
Another scenic float will take you from the south edge of Grand Teton National Park to just below Hoback Junction.
If you are looking for some Jackson Hole Rafting thrills, take a whitewater raft trip from a little south of Hoback Junction through the Snake River Canyon, all the way to Alpine.
Rentals and Fees
Costs and fees vary according to the type of trip you take and how long you want to be on the river.
You can enjoy half a day on the water or you can go for a full day. Other options include combination trips – river trip and horseback riding, chuck wagon cookout and river trip, a morning hike and an afternoon raft ride, a river trip and wildlife viewing and more.
The minimum cost for a ½-day trip will be approximately $65.00 per person.
There are age restrictions on children so be sure and check with local outfitters and guides, as well as Park Service and Forest Service personnel before planning your whitewater trip.
Hire a Guide
Guided float trip options include whitewater rafting in the Snake River Canyon, scenic floats in Grand Teton National Park, and scenic floats on the South Park section.
Snake River scenery includes the majestic Teton Mountain Range, the limestone cliffs of the Snake River Canyon, and the impressive horizon of Grey's National Forest. There is an amazing wealth of wildlife along the river. Bald eagles, moose, marmots, pelicans, beavers, and osprey are just a few of the species that frequent the valley.
Let someone who is familiar with the raft and the area be your guide. All you have to do is show up, sit down, hang on and laugh out loud. A guide allows you to enjoy the ride without worrying about the equipment and your safety. They will do that for you!
Safety Precautions
- Life Vest
Wear a life vest. It doesn't matter how hot it gets outside or how uncomfortable you might feel in that vest. If you fall out, even in very slow water, and hit your head, that vest will save your life. Just don't take it off at any time while you're in the water. - Water Shoes
You don't need water shoes on a whitewater raft, and you can do fine without them. However, at some point in time, you might need to step in the water, and if you're wearing water shoes, you will be happier and safer. - Helmet
If you're going on a class 1 or class 2 river, you don't need a helmet. But if you're headed to a class 3 or above, that helmet, like the life vest, can save your life. - Paddles Down
When you're rafting with others, keep your paddle down and near the water. You won't hit yourself with your own paddle, but you will easily hit someone else in the boat. If you keep the paddle down and outside the boat, you won't hit anyone else - at least in your boat. - The Buddy System
Don't go out alone. - Plan & Notify Others
When you're going out on a whitewater trip, make sure that you make a plan of where you will go and when you will be back. Then, be sure to tell someone else that's not going where you will be and when you plan on returning. - Check Your Equipment
Before you go, check out your raft, paddles, and any other equipment you're taking on the trip - Take Breaks
When you're spending a number of hours going down a river, don't forget to stop and take a break when you get tired. - Drink Water
Don't drink the river water, bring your own along for the trip, especially if you're taking a trip of more than a few hours. - Have Fun
Enjoy this great outdoor recreational activity and be safe so you can head out and do it again.
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